A Health Intervention Program to Improve Balance Disorders and Prevent Falls for the Elderly

Background: Aging is associated with a progressive decline in physical and cognitive functions, increasing the likelihood of age-related diseases and complications such as balance disorders and falls. Falls among the elderly represent a major public health concern due to their significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a health intervention program on improving balance disorders and preventing falls among the elderly. Study Design: A quasi-experimental design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted in two outpatient clinics (Ear, Nose, and Throat and Internal Medicine) at El Salam Hospital, Port Said City. Sample: A purposive sample of elderly participants was recruited. Tools: Data were collected using three tools: (1) an interviewing questionnaire covering demographic characteristics and elderly knowledge regarding balance disorders and fall prevention; (2) the Berg Balance Scale; and (3) the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model. Results: Post-intervention, 76.6% of the elderly achieved satisfactory total knowledge scores, compared to 23.4% with unsatisfactory knowledge. Regarding balance performance, 58.4% demonstrated acceptable balance on the Berg Balance Scale post-intervention. According to the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model, 32.5% of participants were classified as having no fall risk, while 67.5% remained at high risk. Overall, there was a statistically significant improvement in elderly knowledge and balance performance following the intervention program. Conclusion: The health intervention program effectively enhanced the elderly’s knowledge and balance practices, contributing to reduced fall risk. Recommendations: Continuous health education on fall prevention measures and the regular performance of balance exercises are strongly recommended to sustain and improve elderly functional independence.